The upcoming Champions Trophy final could be a defining moment for Rohit Sharma’s tenure as India’s captain, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly viewing the tournament as pivotal in determining the leadership structure for the future. As part of its long-term strategy, the BCCI is keen on ensuring a stable captain for the next ICC World Test Championship cycle (2025-27) and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
At 37, Rohit retains the autonomy to decide on his retirement, but once the Champions Trophy concludes, discussions are expected to take place regarding the appointment of new Test and ODI captains. A BCCI source emphasized that while Rohit still believes he has more to offer in international cricket, he has been asked to communicate his future plans. The source stated, “Retiring is his call, but there will be another discussion around continuing with captaincy. Rohit himself understands the need to have a stable captain if the team wants to prepare for a World Cup.”
The report also reveals that the BCCI has engaged in discussions with Virat Kohli regarding the team’s leadership scenario. However, the source mentioned that there appears to be no significant concerns surrounding Kohli’s role in the team.
Following India’s tour of Australia earlier this year, chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir reportedly had a meeting with Rohit to deliberate on his future as a captain. Rohit, who boasts an illustrious career with 67 Test matches, 272 ODIs, and 159 T20Is, is aiming to clinch his third ICC Trophy as a player and his second as captain when India faces New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final this Sunday.
Historical precedents suggest that leadership transitions have been carefully planned in Indian cricket. MS Dhoni, for instance, stepped down as ODI captain two years before the 2019 World Cup, allowing Virat Kohli ample time to settle into the role. In contrast, Rohit assumed India’s white-ball captaincy from Kohli in 2021, just two years before the 2023 ODI World Cup.
India’s recent decision to appoint Shubman Gill as ODI vice-captain serves as a strong indication of the succession plan. At 25, Gill is poised to take over the reins whenever Rohit decides to step away, ensuring continuity and stability in the leadership ranks.
